V 







DISCOURSE 



W' VET 




lie Sun'ivors of the 



ERAN CORPS IN THE WAR OF 1812, 

il 

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CITY OF NEW-YORK, 
OiN THR FOURTH OF JULY, 1851, 



REV. P. J. VAN PELT, J). 1). 

(Late Chai'laiii of the Tliird Militaiy District, U. S. Aniiv.) 



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NEW-YORK : 

HILDS. PRINTER, 17 1; 
! S 5 1 . 



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mmm €mp nf tjit Bur nf 1812, 13, nn& lif. 



"Head Quarters, 51 William Street, 
''New- York, June 21st, 1851. 

" The Corps will assemble on the Morning of the 4th day of July next' 
at 8 o'clock, A. M., precisely at the Superior Court Room, New City Hall, 
on Chambers Street, (Head Quarters for the day,) to celebrate the Anni- 
versary of our National Independence. All should provide themselves 
with the Cockade adopted by the Corps, and dress of dark Coats and 
white Pantaloons, as far as may be convenient. 

" Those who wish to parade will be provided with Side Arms on that 
morning. At 9 o'clock, a Banner, executed by a young lady, will be pre- 
sented to the Corps for her by his Honor the Mayor, Ambrose C. Kings- 
land. 

" Immediately after the Review, the procession will be formed at the 
Head Quarters of the day, and proceed to the Church, corner of Canal and 
Greene Streets, where the Declaration of Independence will be read by 
Gilbert S. Nexsen, Esq.. a member of the Corps, and subsequently, an 
Oration will be delivered by the Rev. Doct. Peter J. Van Pelt, Chaplain of 
the Corps. 

" The Committee of Arrangement for the Church, are William Raynor, 
Captain, J. P. Dieterich, and Captain A. W. Jones. The Committee on 
Refreshments at Head Quarters are Captain A. Dally, Jr., Lieut. H. E. 
Hoyt, aud Lieut., Wm. H. Miller, who will Report particulars to the Com- 
mandant, and continue their duties until regularly discharged. The 
Treasurer will use all diligence in promoting the collection of dues, and 
on the morning of the 4th be prepared to receive all money that may be 
offered. 

" It is requested by the Commandant that each Officer and Member of 
this Corps strive to increase the numbers of attendants by giving all pub- 
licity to this effort to celebrate the day in a proper and becoming manner, 
after the lapse of thirty-six years estrangement from each other. 

" By order, 

"NICHOLAS HAIGHT, 

" Capt. Abr"m Dally, Jr., Adft." Colonel." 



03(^ 






( n. ) 

Agreeable to llic before-written Orders, the Corps assembled and, shortly 
after nine his Honor the Mayor arrived, accompanied by the Rev. Dr- 
Spring and the Rev. Dr. Van Pelt, and took their seats on the bench of 
the Superior Court Room, Dr. Spring on the right, and Dr. Van Pelt on the 
left of the Mayor. The Veterans were then marched into the room, after 
which the banner was unfurled, and there was a flourish of trumpets. 
The ceremony was then commenced with a prayer by Dr. Spring, invok- 
ing the Divine blessing ; after which the Mayor rose and spoke as follow : — 

Gentlemex It is with pride, I can assure you, that I 

am invited to be with you and, most of all, to perform the 
pleasing duty of presenting to 5''ou this banner. It is a 
tribute most justly due you. Gentlemen, from whatsoever 
source it might proceed, you will all no doubt agree with 
me that it is from the highest, noblest, and most pure. — 
The production of the fair fingers prompted by the warm 
and patriotic heart of a soldier's daughter. On this ban- 
ner are the stripes and stars of our national Union ; under 
its graceful folds, freedom and protection are dispensed to 
all, unsurpassed b}^ any nation upon earth. This has been 
achieved and secured by the labors, privation, sacrifices, 
and deaths of very many of our citizens in the war of 177(j 
and the war of completion, declared June the 18th, 1812, 
of which last, yourselves are the honored survivors. I 
might recite from the pages of histor}'', circumstances and 
events which are to mine and every American heait, deeply 
interesting, but it would, I think, be supei-fluous, as you are 
well ac(};iiiit(ld with them: in many, -very many cases, 
were you partici})ants in the great struggle of 1812, wliich 
secured the hl^erty and happiness we now enjoy, which 
was commenced and contended for by your honored pre- 
decessors in the war of 177G. Under the ensign of the 
stripes and stars, and with the reveille of the soul-stirring 
drum and fife, did you and others cheerfully labor to form 
those entHMichments extending; from Gowanas Bav to the 
Navy Yard, at Brooklyn, and on this island from Hurl Gate, 
to Manliattanville, and subsequently, under the command 
of His Excellency our then worthy and honored Governor, 
Daniel D. Tompldns, were you found, with others from 
adjoining counties, at your posts as soldiers, in those en- 
trcnclnn(Mits, and elsewhere in and about this harbor, formed 
an im])enetrable wall of detcncc to this great city, against 



( "I- ) 

any force that our powerful enemy could command, 
which they tacitly acknowledged by changing their scene 
of operations to the South, where your brethren in arms 
received them and gave a satisfactory reception, now on 
file in the archives at Washington, and enrolled on the 
pages of our National History. Veteran survivors of the 
war of 1812 ! it would ill become me to charge you to de- 
fend and protect this banner, — our national ensign, — you 
have already been tried and proved, and not found want- 
ing as defenders of our nation's rights, our nation's honor, 
and our national independence which we this day celebrate, 
and of the national flag which this day I have the honor to 
present as the representative of a young lady unknown 
only as the daughter of a brother soldier. 

His Honor then presented the Colors, and was responded to as follows, 
by Colonel Haight : — 
Honored Sir: 

This flag which you present to the Veteran Corps of the 
War of 1812, '13 and '14, whom I have the honor to com- 
mand, is received at your hands as the Chief Magistrate of 
this great and patriotic city, and the representative of its 
unknown donor. The encomiums 3'^ou have been pleased 
to express are, indeed, extremely flattering and highly 
complimentary. To us, sir, the expressions of a warm 
heart, duly appreciating our services bs soldiers, is a valu- 
able compensation for our labors, privations and sacrifices 
in the common cause of our country's defence and honor. 
Permit me, honorable sir, to thank you, and through you, 
sir, the young lady who is the donor of this elegant and 
most valuable tribute, and to communicate to her the 
unanimous regret of this Corps that her name is unknown 
to them. Indeed, sir, when I look upon these stripes and 
upon those stars, surrounding the eagle upon that field of 
blue, and the scroll held by the eagle's beak with the 
words "£ Pkiribus Umim,^^ my mind is overwhelmed with 
reminiscences of the past, and the future lost in the dis- 
tance of time of what shall be. Those stripes are the 
original union of thirteen States, each represented by a 
star, in number thirteen in the War of 1776 ; subsequent- 
ly a star has been added for each new State created, peo- 
pled, organized and admitted. The War of 1812 was 



( IV. ) 

under the union of stripes and eighteen stars ; and now 
look, at this our national flag, presented on this fourth day 
of July, 1S51. The union of stripes, pure and unstained, 
with thirty-one stars, and the motto on the scroll — true. 
Indeed, sir, this appears like the production of a fairy hand. 
The fancy picture of imagination, wrought and presented 
to us, telling the past, and pointing to the future. Is it a 
dream — is it fancy — is it fancy — or is it reality ? Sir, it is 
no dream of fancy. It is true ! It is reality ! 

It is, sir, proverbial of American wives and daughters, 
that the domestic hearth is the school of thought and ex- 
change of opinion on all matters relating to the ruling 
topic of the day — civil, religious, philosophical and politi- 
cal ; and I think, sir, the fingers that traced those lines 
with the needle, and directed the painter in his work, have 
been thoroughly schooled, and her mind well stored with 
our nation's history. And wherein is our nation's strength 
which is so truly conve^'^ed? It is in union — one, one in- 
divisible Union. 

This Corps received in 1812, the national flag, with thir- 
teen stripes and eighteen stars in union. They stood by it 
in peril and in need, in war and in peace, until time has 
numbered thirty-one all in union. We now receive this 
flag from 3'our honored hands as the representative of its 
donor, still to be our guide, our polar star through the re- 
mainder of life, and pass down to posterity what we have 
done. To stand firmly, boldl}^ truly, by word and by 
deed, to the Union of these States as our common country. 

They were tlicn maiclied down stairs, formed in line in front of the new 
Cily Hall, then marched round the old City Hall, into Broadway, thence 
to the church corner Canal and Greene Streets, when the ceremonies were 
commenced by the Rev. Dr. Spring, invoking a divine blessing; the De- 
claration of Independence was then read by Gilbert S. Nexsen, Esq., and 
a discourse suitable to the occasion was delivered by the Rev. Dr. Peter 
J. Van Pelt; after which they returned to Head Quarters, New City Hall, 
and, with their invited guests, partook of a cold eolation. 



DISCOURSE 

Delivered by icrint-st ol' tlie Survivors of the 

VETERAN CORPS IN THE WAR OF 1812, 

IN THE CHURCH CORNER CANAL AND GREENE STREETS, 

CITY OF NEW-YORK, 
ON THE FOURTH OF JULY, 1851, 



EEY. P.^J. VAN lELT, D. J). 

{ Late Chajilaiu of the Third Military District, U. S. Army. ) 



NEW-YORK : 

CASPER C. GUILDS, PRINTER, 178 FULTON STREET. 
1851. 



. no 

\<f5 



DISCOURSE. 



Fellow Citizens : 

We are assembled in accordance with the unanimous 
resolve of the surviving Veteran Corps (of officers and 
soldiers) who served in the War of 1812, '13, '14, passed 
at a Meeting held in Military Hall, in the City of New- 
York, the 6th June last, 1851. 

It having pleased them with like unanimity to select me, 
in their own words, as "the Orator of the day," I stand 
before you to address you on this interesting, jubilant, 
anniversary occasion. I say interesting and jubilant occa- 
sion, for so has this Anniversaiy been regarded and cele- 
brated from the first till this seventy-fifth year. So is it 
regarded and celebrated by all American patriots and 
lovers of freedom this day with congratulations of joy and 
rejoicing. The day, and all who honor it, is the sentiment 
which is shouted at the festive board, echoed through halls 
and saloons, and not only pervades the land, but also all 
places where Americans are found. And so, I apprehend, 
will it be regarded and celeb-iated in all coming time, by 
millions of generations yet unborn. 

It is the Anniversary of our nation's birth-daj^ on which 
the Delegates of the People in Congress assembled, de- 
clared these United States to be free, sovereign and inde- 
pendent. They resolved not to bear the burden of taxation, 
imposed on them without the right of representation ; to 
throw off the yoke of oppression ; to unfurl the flag of 
thirteen stripes and stars as their national banner of three 



millions ot'people, and assume their equal, independent rank 
among the powers of the earth. 

It was a bold resolve — a hazardous enterprize, a mo- 
mentous undertaking ! because undertaken against an old, 
warlike, and powerful nation. But the men who under- 
took and did it — w ho were selected and delegated in the 
providence of God — were inspired and gifted with wisdom 
and courage from above, and possessed the necessaiy quali- 
fications of integrity and patriotism. They appealed to 
the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for the rectitude of their 
intentions and the justice of their cause ; and for the sup- 
port of it, mutuallj^ pledged their lives, their fortunes, and 
their sacred konor; having the testimony of approving con- 
sciences, endowed with patriotism, talent, integrity, firm- 
ness and fortitude, and having the encouraging hope of 
divine approbation. They also had the confidence of their 
constituency — a patriotic, virtuous and enlightened people ; 
and under tlic smiles and the determinate counsel of 
heaven, the glorious work, after seven years of anxious toil 
and conflict, was accomplished. Their memories, virtues, 
and extraordinary achievements are, as doubtless they 
ought and will be, held in lasting and grateful remem- 
brance. 

The distinguished blessings of freedom, civil and re- 
ligious, they projected and labored for with unremitted 
diligence, zeal and courage, we, with tens of thousands 
from divers lands are enjoying, wliile there is none to make 
us afraid. 

They were a pure and raz-e race of men, who had grown 
up in this new world, descended from chivalrous, pious 
ancestry in the old world, who had encountered fierce op- 
position in high places, and endured contradiction, priva- 



tion, persecution and suffering as well from the court of 
high commission and Star Chamber in England, as from 
the revocation of the edict of Nants, and intolerant papal 
bigotry in France ; and therefore knew how to prize the 
boon of liberty. 

Brought up and instructed in the cardinal principles of 
the bible, and in knowledge of the liberty wherewith 
Christ, the Saviour, makes his people free, they hated per- 
secution and oppression, and loved truth, justice, mercy, 
and the rights of man. 

To glance at and recount briefly their achievements, as 
also of those who succeeded them and were engaged in the 
second War of 1S12, and show how we may best promote 
and perpetuate the rich inheritance of liberty transmitted 
us with the precious privileges we enjoy, are the points to 
which I invite your attention. 

The drama of the revolution, the first war for indepen- 
dence, being fully opened, to effect it without difficult}^, 
commotion, loss of life, blood and treasure, was not, could 
not be expected. 

Not only many valuable lives were immolated in free- 
dom's cause, but the temples of Jehovah's worship were 
attacked, profaned, and demolished. Defenceless towns 
and villages were set on fire and reduced to ashes ; cul- 
tured fields were desolated ; widows' houses plundered ; 
the virtuous daughter ignominiously robbed of her chastity ; 
the father bewailed his child ; the mother the loss of her 
son — her darling son — whose youthful bosom glowed with 
the love of liberty — who embarked in the contest for free- 
dom, and who died fighting for his country. Many a fair and 
beauteous form was left on the cold ground, the miserable 
appendage of a mangkd corpse. The blood of the brave 



and honorable stained the ?oil and crimsoned tlie brooks of 
America, before she could be free and independent, and 
elevated to that high rank to which she was destined by 
the Supreme Arbiter of the fate of Nations. 

Alas ! how fearful in prospective, the wide waste of 
horror und devastation that lay before our fathers! How- 
portentous that period when the congregated storms of proud 
monarchy and aristocratic rage broke loose upon us — when 
the onset for independence was made. It was then the time 
that tried men's souls ; when the trump of war resounded 
throughout our broad land, an4 summoned to our shores the 
legions of arbitrary power; that an army of American sol- 
diers — true, patriotic Whigs, fearless of danger and jeopard- 
ing life ! pressed around the elevated standards of freedom 
and their country ; contending not for a mbition, nor vain 
honor and conquest, but for independence and their coun- 
try's rights. They endured privations, sufferings and hard- 
ships, offering their lives, their fortunes and honor in sacred 
pledges of faithfulness to their cause. They risked their 
all — confiscation of property, loss of life and reputation, 
their altars and peaceful firesides, in the struggle for liber- 
ty. A struggle with an ancient, warlike, brave and 
powerful nation. But He who was with us, who ruleth 
in the armies of heaven, was more and mightier than they 
who were against us. 

Holding as we do all nations enemies in war, in peace 
friends ; it is only with a view to refresh your memories, 
and keep alive the spirit of the day, that we rehearse the 
story and remark: Lexington opened the tragic scene, and 
furnished the first public proofs of republican resolution 
and vtdor. In looking back on the time, we see the raw 
and undisciplined troops, organized and led on by brave 



chiefs, rush to the battle field, and as if by the power of 
inspiration, perform prodigies of valor. 

Bunker Hill records the heroism of yeomanry and mar- 
tial prowess of a Warren. Alas ! there that brave officer 
fell deeply lamented. Boston cradled the revolution, and 
produced eminent champions in the cause. " Sink or 
swim," said the elder Adams, "I go for independence." 
The name of John Hancock stand pre-eminent on the roll 
of our early and pure patriots. 

In those da^'-s of pure and lofty patriotism, the South, 
emulating the north, breathing a like spirit of gallantry 
and of union ; \\ e hear the eloquent Patrick Henry ex- 
claiming in the deliberative Assembly, " Give me liberty or 
give me death." 

That illustrious citizen George Washington of Virginia, 
having been appointed by Congress commander-in-chief of 
our armies, we behold him at Cambridge, Massachusetts, 
and then in New- York, crossing the East River, battling 
with the foe on Long Island, (and as was said, against his 
own private and better judgement.) It was there he was 
heard to utter these memorable w^ords to his officers, (hav- 
ing been told that the enemy had landed,) "If the enemy 
advance and attack us to-night we are unprepared. But 
we must trust in God, hope for the best, and do our duty." 

We notice him recrossing the East River in the dead of 
night to this city, with the manifest interposition of heaven. 
Not a breath of air rippled the water to disturb the boats 
deeply laden with officers and soldiers, and a dense fog 
settled down between the two armies, (like to the cloud 
that intervened between the armies of Pharoah and Moses 
at the Red Sea,) which spread over the enemy's shipping 
in New- York Bay, and prevented their coming up to the 



8 

city. Tims was Washin.uton and liis army maivi-lously 
delivered hi the memorable summer of 1776. 

Pursued by die enemy, he skirmished, fought and re- 
treated till he came to White Plains, in Westchester; where 
he (encamped, stood, and had a drawn battle. From 
thence he crossed the North River, and proceeded through 
New Jersey to Trenton, where having crossed the Dela- 
ware amidst the roaring ice, he attacked and captured the 
mercenary body of Hessians, and kindling large fires in 
his encampment to delude the enemy, he marched to Prince- 
Ion, where he again grappled with the foe effectively, and 
thence went into winter quarters at Morristown. 

It was in the conflict at Princeton, that the gallant Gen. 
Mercer fell, whose memory is engraven in New Jcn'soy. 
There flowed the purple stream of his life for freedom. 
We notice also our AVashington with the gallant La Fayette 
at Monmouth, where, as Gen. La Fayette remarked when 
last here, our troops behaved gallantly under the command 
of his Excellency Gen. Washington, when he had disarmed 
and put Gen. Lee under arrest for mal-conduct. So also 
we might notice the triumphs of a Schuyler and Gates, and 
others at Saratoga, in the surrender of Burgoyne. The able 
Generalship of Green, at Guilford and the Eutaw Springs. 
As also the heroic deeds of the chivalrous Gen. Marion of 
South Carolina, and of others whose names adorn the pages 
of our revolutionary annals. But time would fail, to recite 
all the pkices and deeds cf those distinguished patriots of 
the revolution, and the army of suffering brave soldiers 
who achieved our Independence. We must not however 
omit to notice the celebrated Yorktown in Viruinia. Long 
shall the fame of that siege — the last momentous conflict, 
be remembered with profound gratitude to the mighty 



•■W 



power that overrules and directs the fate of battles, and 
destiny of nations. There did the guardian angel protect 
our beloved Washington by hair breadth escape, and there 
did he shine as a star of the first magnitude, amid the shouts 
of victory, and the splendour of a proud triumph. It 
seems as if divine Providence had reserved this place in 
the native State of the American Commander, for the last 
brilliant displa}^ of great and glorious actions. With the 
surrender of lord Cornwallis and his army, in the progress 
of events, was ended the war of the revolution, and the 
acknowledgment of otir independence by the British Go- 
vernment. 

Washington acknowledged the good hand of God on our 
counsels and arms, succored by the co-oj^eration of the 
gallant La Fayette and his brave countrymen, a generous 
ally. Congress, the army and the nation ; gave thanks to 
Almighty God for his goodness, and for his wonderful 
works to the children of men. 

There were many circumstances of divine concurrence 
and signal interposition during the arduous struggle for in- 
dependence, which displayed the arm of omnipotence, and 
evinced the justice of the cause. 

An incident of no small moment and worthy of mention, 
occurred on this Island, (as is related,) at the house of Mr. 
Robert Murray, (known as Murray Hill,) near which an en- 
counter took place between the troops of Washington and 
the advancing enemy in command of Generals Howe and 
Clinton ; at the close of which Washington sent an officer 
to Mrs. wife of Robert Murray, with a request to her, to 
detain, if possible, Generals Howe and Clinton with their 
army at her house, until Gen. Putnam with a large body 
of Washington's army, who were on the north side of the 

2 



10 

City and Island, had passed by the Blooniingdale road ; 
which the true and patriotic Mrs. R. Murray accomphshed. 
By going down the lawn to the gate lending to the house, 
by the road side where the Generals, Howe and Clinton 
with the British army just at the time came on the advanc- 
ing march. i>he invited them to her house to take some 
refreshment, as it was a hot day, and as they had been 
enjraired in hot work, (a battle.) Gen. Howe said to Gen. 
Clinton ; " Chnton, shall we accept the lady's invitation ?" 
to w^hich Clinton answered in the affirmative ; the army 
was ordered to halt. It was during that halt, when the 
chief officers of the British army were taking refreshments 
at Mrs. Murray's, that Gen. Putnam passed by the Bloom- 
ingdale road, joined Washington, and made a narrow and 
providential escape. But for the forethought of Washington, 
the hospitidity and fidelity of Mrs. INIurray, it was thought 
the brave Gen. Putnam with his division would have been 
surrounded and cut off, and Washington's army would have 
been greatly weakened, if not destroyed. What effect, 
such loss at this interesting period of the war would have 
had, is not for us to say. Thus was Washington and his 
arm}', by his inventive genius, the hospitable disposition, 
and true patriotism of a New York and an American Lady, 
delivered at that time from the grasp of the enemy — in a 
providential, signal manner. 

Thus is it that the most high who ruleth over men, makes 
the wrath of man to praise him, and restrains the remainder 
of their wrath. 

The fact of having a man in our country at that juncture 
as was George Washington ; who in the purity of his char- 
acter, his industrious habits — his sound, discriminating judg- 
ment — his honesty and fixedness of purpose — his cnlight- 



11 

ened understanding — his reverence for God, liis word and 
truth, and therefore blessed in his counsels and arms — his 
prudent caution, military tact and prowess, as was early 
evinced at the defeat of Braddock ; where his life was 
most signally preserved ! together with his undeviating 
patriotism — love of liberty and the riglits of the people ! 
possessing such qualifications, he was eminently fitted for 
a leader and commander of the American army. And 
under divine auspices he did lead the army to victory, and 
brought the country in union and renoun far and wide — to 
the establishment of peace, liberty and independence. 

The tears and mourning of the nation, when he was 
removed by death, (on which occassion he who now ad- 
dresses you delivered an oration by request, on the day 
set apart by Congress to observe his obsequies, and com- 
memorate his virtues) best demonstrated the universal 
sympathy and love for his rare and exalted character. 
And even now on this national anniversary, with a vastly 
increased and still increasing population, methinks I see 
more than 22 millions of freemen, doing the homage of re- 
spect, gratitude and affection to his memor}'-, thanking God 
for so distinguished a gift, and with one accord pronouncing 
him father of his country — " first in war, first in peace, and 
first in the hearts of his countrymen." 

He might when he felt power have forgot right, and 
seizing the critical moment when the army was disbanded, 
and taking advantage of the anonymous seditious letters 
which were then published and scattered through the 
army, have sought to make himself a military despot. 
We have an instructive <bxample of such dereliction of 
principle in Napoleon Bonaparte, the first of the Gaelic 
Caesars, who sat on the throne of the Bourbons, who sub- 



12 

jugated almost all the eastern continent, and seemed to set 
out in his career, with love of liberty and republican prin- 
ciples. But Washington, honest and honorable in his prin- 
ciples and engagements ; proved true and faithful to the 
interests and rights of the people. In taking leave of the 
army, he said : "Brave soldiers! having fought for liberty 
and attained by the blessing of Providence, the object ; let 
us go to our homes — and work for property." 

The people of the United States having by their dele- 
gates in convention made, ratified and confirmed a general 
and federal constitution, in order to " establish justice, insure 
domestic tranquility, and form a more perfect union between 
the States ; to promote the general welfare, and secure the 
blessings of hberty to themselves and their posterity:" 
organized the Government, and elected George Washington 
the first President. 

The Government being thus organized, and going on in 
successful operation ; the country prosperous in its various 
departments of agriculture, commerce, manufactures, arts 
and sciences : it was soon discovered, that crowned heads 
in Europe with their minions of royalty, envied our 
peaceable and flourishing condition; became jealous of our 
unexampled growth and prosperity, and manifested a dis- 
position of unfriendliness toward us. Arising as well from 
our free institutions, republican principles, and structure of 
our Government, placing the power in the hands of the' 
people, by the right of suffrage through the ballot box, and 
leaving each one free to worship God according to the 
dictates of conscience ; without connection with, or exclu- 
sive patronage from the civil Government ; as also from 
our prosperity, peace and happiness. And moreover re- 
garding our Government as imbecile and indigent; our 



13 

Union, a rope of sand, our people inejfficient, who could not 
be goaded into war. 

Hence, already in the administration of President 
Washington, serious collisions and disagreements began to 
take place, which were coeval with the treaty that termi- 
nated the first American war. Which were afterwards 
partially adjusted by Mr. Jay's treaty. 

In the administration of President Adams, another col- 
lision and disagreement took place with Spain, which was 
however soon amicably settled. And another with France, 
which had begun under the former administration, and 
which was of a more grave and aggravated character. 
This was also afterwards in a manner palliated. 

In the administration of Presidents Jefferson and Madi- 
son, the disrespectful and hostile spirit of the British 
pursued us not only at sea, the highway of" nations, but 
penetrated the mouth of our harbour. 

The great matter at issue between the two countries, be- 
sides other differences, w^as the interruption of our ships 
and vessels at sea, and the impressment of seamen from 
on board of them. Seizing and searching our ships at sea 
by the British for persons and property ; we being a neutral 
nation. Our Government claiming by the law of nations, 
that our flag should protect our ships, citizens — crews and 
property under it. That it should be a guaranty and pass- 
port to our respect, honor and safety in all places on the 
high seas. 

It was this that brought on the second war of independ- 
ence, so called, in 1812. The justice and necessity of 
which was eloquently advocated in Congress by that emi- 
nent Statesman and Senator, Henry Clay, "Who spoke 
to the heart, and bore the palm away ;" who was after- 



14 

wards one of the Commissioners appointed ; that made 
the treaty of peace between the two nations at Ghent. 

In this conflict which was near three years, battles at 
sea and on land were fought — and were won and lost, as 
is the fate and fortune of war. In this war, you the sur- 
vivors of the Veteran Corps bore a manly and distin- 
guished part, and were engaged in defending and main- 
taining the honor and rights of your independent Govern- 
ment ; of your flag and your Country. 

In doing this, many privations, losses, and hardships 
were endured, many obstacles encountered, much treasure 
expended, and many hves lost. It was feared by some 
when the war commenced, that in contending with so 
powerful a nation for our just and equal rights in navigat- 
ing the ocean — a nation which assumed to be mistress of 
the seas ! — our small navy would be swept from it, or 
covered with disgrace. 

But he who ruleth among the nations, whose is the sea ; 
who made it for the good of all — an element for ships to 
move in, and appointed its bounds — favored us also there 
on the mighty deep, as it pleased him to do for us on the 
land ; crowned our infant or youthful navy, as well on the 
wide ocean, as on the inland seas of the lakes, with great 
and signal and glorious victories — testifying to the able 
seamanship, the nautical skill and bravery of officers and 
men, and bearing the pledges of defence, prosperit}^ and 
protection — to the justice of our cause on the ocean, to free 
trade and sailors' rights. 

It was in those naval engagements that the genius and 
courage of the distinguished heroes, Hull, Bainbridge, 
Lawrence, Perry, Macdonough and Decatur, were de- 
veloped, and eulogized l)y the nation. So also in tliat war 



15 



were developed the elevated patriotism and prowess, the 
intellectual and military resources of intrepid officers and 
soldiers on land, who by their valorous deeds became re- 
nowned ! were honored and esteemed by a grateful peo- 
ple with bursts of applause. Such as Brown at Sackett's 
Harbor, McComb at Plattsburg, and Scott the hereof Chip- 
pewa and Lundy's Lane. And last and greatest of all, 
to cap the climax, and end the strife of an unnatural war ! 
the masterly and brilliantly crowning battle of New Or- 
leans under Gen. Jackson, where a righteous Providence 
seemed to say to the invading enemy, " Such of you as 
are left alive on the field of battle, haste to your ships of 
war and go home to your own rich and cultivated lands 
m good old England, and let your brethren and kindred in 
America alone, and molest them not!" And to us, in 
the same eventfnl battle, a Idnd Providence seemed to pro- 
nounce our cause just, in defending the countiy against 
valiant and powerful invaders, maintaining our honor and 
dignity among the nations, vindicating our rights on sea 
and land, and preserving our union and independence un- 
impaired. 

I have said that ivar was unnatural : and is it not unnatu- 
ral for nations as Great Britain and the United States of 
America, speaking the same rich and beautiful language, 
from whose chivalric ancestry we have descended, and 
taught by their noble example, as furnished in their in- 
structive history, to resist aggression, and defend our coun- 
try, her liberties and rights ; each boasting of its excellent 
institutions and liberty ; each brave and honorable, pro- 
fessing the same religion, pure and unadulterated, and 
each co-operating in Christian union to exhibit Christianity 
in its most excellent character, and by all laudable efforts 



16 

* 

to evangelize the heathen nations ; to circulate the Bible — 

the holy book of God — without note or comment, through 
foreign, heathen lands, and spread the knowledge of salva- 
tion by Jesus Christ the Son of God, the onW true Saviour, 
broad cast all over the world. 

Surely it is specially unnatural and wrong, for such en- 
lightened and Christian nations to be at war with each 
other. And whence come wars and fightings? Come they 
not hence as an apostle says, "even of lusts that war in the 
members." 

May wisdom, courage and power be so tempered, justice 
and mercy so disposed, good faith and charity be so exercis- 
ed, that there shall be no more war between these nations. 

With the la St marvellous, successful struggle at New Or- 
leans, the second war of independence was ended. The 
law of nations was vindicated and maintained. Our insti- 
tutions preserved in their purity and vigor. Our flag un- 
tarnished, floating in the breeze of seas and rivers among 
distant nations. Our commerce, agriculture, arts and 
sciences flourishing. Our country's right and liberties un- 
diminished and inviolate. The tide of emioration flowing 
toward us with accumulated strength, giving us numerical 
force. Our national union and honor cemented, consoli- 
dated and advanced. The importance and dignity of the 
Government increased in estimation and renown in all 
paits of the world. 

In the words of the gallant La Fayette, who said to 
me, " wherever the name of an American, especially the 
presence of an American oflicer is announced in Europe ; 
he is received with marked respect." "That war," he added, 
" let the world see that what the fathers contended for in the 
fint war ; the sons were able and willing to defend and 



17 

* 

maintain in the second^ And truly the spirit evinced by 

the fathers, survived in the sons. 

O that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and 
for his wonderful works, for his guidance and direction and 
great care of us as »a nation ; for the victories achieved, 
for the peace and prosperity we enjoy. In that war, our 
number of States were " seventeen, and the number of 
vessels captured was more than sixteen hundred, with more 
than three thousand guns, and twelve thousand men." 

Since then, besides Indian wars of minor importance, 
we have had a war with the Mexicans. 

This, as was said, originated in their refusing or with- 
holding and delaying the payment of moneys long and 
justly due us ; together with a manifestation of trifling and 
menace toward us of dishonor and disrespect, derogatory 
to the honor and dignity of our Government. 

In this late war whilst we deplore again the privations 
and sufferings endured, the treasure expended, the profuse 
effusion of human blood — the loss of dear and valuable 
lives ; and sympathise with the widows and fatherless ! 
our arms were again signally blessed and favored by 
divine interposition. With vastly inferior numbers, as at 
Palo Alta, Resaca de la Palma, at Monterey and Buena 
Vista, under Gen. Taylor with his small number of invin- 
cible volunteer soldiers. So also at the strong castle of 
St. Juan de Ulloa, in Vera Cruz ; supposed to be impreg- 
nable. As also at Chapultepec, Molina Del Rey and the 
City of Mexico, under Gen. Scott. 

In which memorable battles and celebrated victories 
obtained with triumphs and conquests by inferior numbers, 
rarely equalled by military skill, science and bravery, the 
New York volunteers bore a distinguished part, and gained 

3 



18 

signal honor and applause ; not only for themselves, but 
also for the Empire State, and the whole country. Show- 
ing to the world, that with such volunteer citizen-soldiers 
as we have by hundreds of thousands in our various indus- 
trial employment, intelligent, active, hardy, patriotic and 
brave ! under the blessing of the Almighty ruler of nations, 
our independence and liberties will be defended, and 
triumphantly maintained. 

That in the hands of such patriots and men, led by offi- 
cers capable, faithful and true, with the fostering care and 
propitious smiles of heaven ! the honor of the countr}-, the 
constitution, the union — and the republic are safe. 

Having come out of the war with Mexico with our flag 
unsullied, and with a vast additional territory, abounding 
with gold and precious metals contributing to the wealth 
of the country ; which now stretches far along the Pacific 
Ocean on the west, and running far into the interior ; with 
the settlement of the dues, and annexation already of a 
State, making our number thirty-one, and territoiy sufficient 
soon to make several more States ; together with the de- 
velopment of mountains of gold, and vast physical resources 
of wealth ; from minerals, agiiculture, trade, commerce, 
manufactures, arts and literature ; our free institutions, 
civil and religious extensively diffiised, the cause of tem- 
perance, education and good morals promoted, the bounda- 
ries of the republic enlarged — our rights and liberties pre- 
served in tranquil and happy enjoyment, with the shield 
of the Gospel of grace for our sure protection ! Surely 
we may say, what has God wrought for us ! What more 
could have been done, that has not been done ! Surely 
the Almighty has not dealt so with any nation. 

Possessing such a country as this ; abounding with all 



19 

the necessaries, and most of" the bixuries of tlie world, 
where we eat our bread without scarceness, and drink 
our water from the pure fountains, and blessed with a con- 
stitution of Government, the result of a spirit of amity of 
our fathers ; of mutual deference and compromise between 
the United States, so as to promote the general welfare, 
and secure the freedom and happiness of all ! A consti- 
tution which guaranties the right of sufirage, the rights of 
civil and religious liberty to each and to all the people ! 
It remains to show how, and in what manner ; by what 
rule of conduct we shall best preserve this country dear 
to us all ! — with its constitution, union, liberty and inde- 
pendence, and transmit it inviolate to succeeding genera- 
tions. 

On this point, as on most subjects, there mny be an honest 
difference of oj^inion. 

It seems however clear and reasonable, that the spirit 
and way, in which our independence was achieved, the 
constitution of our country was made, the Government or- 
ganized and put into operation ; is the spirit to be cherished 
and way to be exercised, in order to preserve and perpetu- 
ate it. Now this was done according to the declaration of 
the upright and renowned sages of our country, who framed 
the constitution ; in the spirit of amity, and the way of 
deference and concession to each State, entering into the 
compact. Otherwise they could not have done it. So that 
the union of all the States, in the confederacy, with their 
different interests ; south and north being consulted, conso- 
lidated — formed into one compact ; all might share in the 
common benefits of defence, prosperit}^ honor, harmony 
and happiness. Such a union they considered so important 
as to involve " the prosperity, felicity, safety, perhaps our 



20 

national existence." Therefore, in our legislation to have 
due respect to the rights and interests of each and all ! 
how, and at all times, to cherish a like spirit of friendship 
and good feeling by all our citizens towards each State in 
the Union : is doubtless the most likel}^ and best way to 
preserve our national existence, promote our prosperity, 
safety, honor and happiness, and transmit these inestimable 
blessings to posterity. It was in the spirit of friendship, 
love and good will to man, by the great Creator, Redeemer 
and Sanctifier of the world, that the Gospel was ordained 
to be preached, the way of salvation made known by the 
cross of Christ, the true, holy Cathohc Church instituted, 
the people exhorted to repent and believe, to love God and 
each other ; to do to others, as they would have others do 
to them ; and as an incentive to dut}'^ ; peace on earth with 
gracious consolation — and the glorious inheritance reserved 
in heaven, was the reward — promised. 

In such a spirit of amity did our virtuous and honored 
fathers achieve our independence, frame the constitution, 
model and establish our excellent Government. 

They had imbibed the firm and generous, and kindly af- 
fectioned spirit of the Gospel, and they acted it out, as is 
manifested in the first prayer in Congress. As also by 
Washington on the eve of one of the first eventful battles lor 
freedom; when he said, '■^ Let tts ti'^ist in God, hope for the 
best, and do our dutyy 

And again, as he said in his farewell address to the 
people of the United States. Enjoining it on all to adhere 
to the union, and support the constitution as the palladium 
of our liberties, our peace at home, our safety and respect 
abroad. To fiown indignantly on the first dawning of 
every attempt to sever the union of the States, or to alien- 



21 

ate one portion of our country from the rest. To cultivate 
good morals and respectful behaviour towards each other. 
Such a spirit of friendship or amity evinced to one 
another, in connection with the paramount desire to ad- 
vance the cause and kingdom of the divine Redeemer in 
the hearts and lives of men, with a view to their temporal 
and everlasting happiness ; such a rule of conduct and vir- 
tuous course of life, in the spirit of fraternal feeling, and 
exercise of christian charity ; will be found to be the most 
sure and effectual way to perpetuate our glorious Union, 
preserve our admirable constitution, wdth the guarantees of 
national and State rights, of civil and religious freedom ; 
as also to secure the continued enjoyment of the bless- 
ings of divine Providence. In this way we will maintain 
our character as a nation — we will suppress unhallowed 
passions — rivaiships and jealousies ; and show that we are 
capable of self-government, and of justly discriminating 
between greater and lesser evils! and spread the fame 
and glory of the repubhc. 

A republic, the purest, greatest and best ever formed by 
men, which in its fundamental j)rinciples and structure is 
similar to the Government, formed in divine wisdom and 
goodness among the first chosen people of the most high 
on earth, and bears a most striking resemblance, to the 
ancient and pure commonwealth of Israel- In which the 
people have the power, and choose their representatives 
and officers ; where liberty is founded in justice, reason, 
intelligence and law. Where the press is free, know- 
ledge diffiised among the people, crime is punished, 
and virtue rewarded ; where every man is protected in 
his just rights, and left free by his reason to combat error 
in principle and practice, in politics and religion, and 
worship God according to the dictates of liis conscience. 



22 

What a sublime and interesting spectacle does our coun- 
try present in the world. Moving onward — onward, in 
freedom, in union, in wealth, resources, literature, science, 
arts, numbers, distinction, and unexampled prosperity and 
happiness. 

We may on this returning Anniversary, commemorative 
of our Independence, having as we joyously hope and be- 
lieve, passed a crisis ! be indulged, exultingly to exclaim, 
"Excelsior!" and adopting the sentiment, with a little va- 
riation in words, of a distinguished divine,* who was both 
poet and patriot of the revolution, say : 

" United, United States, to higher glory arise ; 
The Queen of the World, and the child of the skies; 
Thy genius commands thee, with rapture behold, 
While ages on ages, thy splendor unfold : 
Thy reign is the last and the noblest of time, 
Most fruitful thy soil, most inviting thy clime ; 
May the crimes of the East ne'er crimson thy name, 
Be freedom and science, and virtue thy fame." 

Here in this country — man, whether native or adopted ; 
free born or naturalized ; breathes free air. And though 
poor, if he has respect for himself, his freedom and our in- 
stitutions ; if he is honest and honorable, industrious, moral, 
just and virtuous in his conduct — is Nature's nobleman. 
He will get empWment, and be respected by others ; and 
in common with his fellow-citizens, will be protected by 
the laws in his rights ; beneath the broad expanse of the 
Tree of Liberty, which is spread over thirty-one States; 
reaching far along the Adantic and Pacific Oceans ; be- 
sides a vast territorjs growing, and soon to be added to 
the glorious Union, in accordance with the Constitution. 

• Rev. Dr. Dwight, President of New Haven College. 



23 



Having had the honor and pleasure in my early boy- 
hood and school-going days, to spend part of an afternoon 
in the company of Gen. Washington, on Long Island, pre- 
vious to his inauguration in the City of New- York as the first 
President of our Republic ! I remember well his grave, 
miijestic countenance— his dignified deportment— his bland 
and amiable manners— his stately stepping and lofty bear- 
ing in walking—arrayed in his military uniform of buff and 
blue— and towering above the officers then with him ; as 
also his elegant appearance when mounted on horseback, 
being in person, as was said, over six feet high. 

Subsequently, and during my Collegiate years in Co- 
lumbia College, N. Y., Gov. Alexander Hamilton made the 
remark : " That often as he was with his Excellency, Gen. 
Washington, he invariably felt a degree of awe in his 
presence ; and that this feeling, which was general, was 
inspired because of a deep sense entertained of Washing- 
ton's greatness, justness and goodness." 

Of the same import, was the remark of Gen. La Fayette, 
to me, on his last visit to our country as the nation's guest, 
at the house of Gov. Tompkins on Staten Island ; when by 
request of the Governor, the honor was conferred on me of 
delivering the salutatory address to Gen. La Fayette; with 
cordial welcome, and congratulations on his safe arrival 
once more in the countiy ; for whose civil and religious 
liberties he fought gallantly in the days of his youth, by 
the side of our illustrious Washington. On which inte- 
resting and memorable occasion. Gen. La Fayette also 
made the following, further remark : 

" That at the close of the revolutionary war, on a visit 
to Mount Vernon, the seat of his Excellency Gen. Wash- 
ington, when he saw Mrs. Washington— the mother of the 



24 

General ; who was at the time when he got there, in the 
garden, having on her head a large bonnet or hat, superin- 
tending her cuhnary plants and vetgetables, was received 
most cordially and affectionately without undue ceremony, 
and then entertained by her in the house with instructive 
conversation : his wonder ceased, that Washington, the 
son of such a mother, should be so great a patriot — so pure 
and great and good a man." 

And added, "if such be the matrons of America; no 
wonder that their sons should be such lovers of liberty, 
such distinguished patriots, such illustrious citizens." 

Having mentioned these reminisences to the late Gen. 
Taylor at Washington, at the time of his inauguration as 
President of the United States ; and wishing him the bless- 
ing of the Almighty on his Presidential career ! he replied 
and said. " My dear Sir, I thank you for your good wishes 
to me, and our beloved country. I shall administer the 
Government to the best of my ability, after the manner of 
our illustrious Washington ; irrespective of party — for the 
good of the countty. And do the best I can for the good 
of all the people." 

Now when we contemplate our countr}", these United 
States of America, honored and blessed with so many pure 
patriots and eminent citizens — with Washington as chief. 
A country which illustrious fathers declared of right were 
and ought to be free and independent; the anniversary of 
wliich we with millions are celebrating this day. 

A country inhabited by people of various ancestry, and 
united by States of great extent, embracing various soils and 
climes, each and all sovereign, with written constitutions ; 
under one general and federal written constitution ; pro- 
tecting the rights and sovereignty of each State, and gua- 



«► 



25 

ranteeing the right, the safety and happiness of all ; united 
m bonds of fraternal friendship and love ! 

Such a country, with such a Government and such a 
republic! far surpassing ancient Grecian and Roman re- 
publics, as well in the guarantees of Kberty and excellence 
of its institutions, as in wisdom and perfection of organiza- 
tion ! which has endured three quarters of a century, has 
passed successfully severe ordeals that have tested its 
strength, and nobly triumphed over the shocks of war! 
leavmg its citizens in honor, peace and prosperity ! Shall 
such a republican Government, the best and noblest of 
time ! formed by the wisdom, the patriotism and virtue of 
illustrious fathers ; be rent asunder, have its unity broken, 
its beauty marred and destroyed ! God forbid it. 

If such should be the catastrophe, the fatal event and 
final destiny of these United States, of free and indepen- 
dent America ! then may honest patriots, true Americans 
and Christians weep indeed. Then would the lovers of 
liberty, and the rights of man throughout Europe and the 
world weep. 

Then, methinks, if the sad tidings were borne by angels, 
the ministering spirits of the most higli ; to Washington 
and the patriot sages and heroes of the revolution ! great 
would be the wail of sorrow, for the severance and down- 
fall of the American Republic. 

But whilst the " earth bears a plant, and the sea rolls a 
wave ;" we hope in the mercy and power of Gqd, the in- 
telligence, patriotism and virtue of the American people . 
that such a deplorable event shall not happen. But that 
the Union of the States shall be better and better cemented, 
union and harmony prevail and be perpetuated. The con- 
stitution, the monument of the united wisdom, and admini- 



26 

tion of the world stand and remain like a rock in the ocean ; 
unhurt amid the dashing waves of disaffection and dis- 
union. " So mote it be," brother Americans. 

If then, as enlightened, free and faithful Americans ; yon 
are resolved to support a good Government — a Govern- 
ment of the people — founded in republican principles ; dis- 
tinct from and opposed to royalty and titled nobility in 
Church and State ; won b}^ the valor, through divine favor, 
and endeared by the blood of many precious lives. If you 
are determined that the Union, formed by our fathers — 
must and shall be preserved ! That the Constitution 
which guarantees j^our rights and privileges — shall stand 
an enduring monument of American wisdom, patriotism, 
union and virtue ! iVnd, if it pleases the Almighty, that 
it shall not be broken — nor surrendered to tyrants, nor in- 
sidious political demagogues ! 

If as true Americans, who have fought in defence of 
liberty, your country and its rights, as your fathers did 
before you, and are left in the full enjoyment of invalun- 
ble privileges ! let me implore you to be thankful to God, 
and rightly to appreciate 3-our blessings, by living honora- 
bly, virtuously, and usefully in the world. Above all to 
love God, who loved us, nnd sent his son to be the pro- 
pitiation for our sins. Having so loved us, we ought to love 
one another. 

IVIay the Spirit of Grace influence the hearts of the peo- 
ple, and excite them to greater friendship, love and grati- 
tude ! to the honor of themselves — their country, and the 
preservation of their rights and liberties. 

And as a further means, to preserve the Union, and j^our 
dear bought privileges ; and transmit them to future gene- 
rations ! Be advised frequently to think and talk of^ — to 



27 

cherish and suppoil the sentiment of our beloved and im- 
mortal Washington, as expressed in his farewell address 
to the people of his coimtiy. He loved the Constitution, 
the Union, and liberties of the country, whose army he led 
to victory — whose Government he administered with suc- 
cess ; for which he periled his life, and devoted his time 
and talents. Discountenance all vexatious, improper agi- 
tation of every matter, whether slavery, fugitive law, or 
whatever else ; conflicting with the Constitution — arraying 
citizen against citizen — and disturbing the peace and union 
of the United States. The saying is no less true than old, 
that "United we stand, divided we fall." And that 
there have been designs to divide, in order to conquer us, 
cannot be doubted. Whether you are inhabitants of the 
North, South, East or West of this great and extensive re- 
public ; snpport the powers that are constituted, and obey 
the laws enacted by the legitimate authority and voice of 
a free people. 

The banner that displays the eagle, the stripes and stars 
of our beloved country — free and united America ; is the 
same throughout the Union. On this flag is inscribed the 
significant motto, "E Pluribus Unum." It is the star- 
spangled standard of the States, known and honored by 
the nations as the ensign of the model republic — the flag 
of American freedom. United, under it — with the bles- 
sings of the God of our fathers, we shall rise higher and 
higher in national importauce ; be protected in our rights 
and hold our liberties safe and secure. Our country re- 
spected abroad, prosperous and happy at home, with Union 
for her pole star — shall guide to the ultimate triumph of 
liberty over the world ; and advancing in splendour, fame 
and glory ; like the sun in the firmament, shine brighter 
and brighter to the perfect day. 



r>. V' 



LIBRI 



i 



M 



pennulip^* 



